Mark 6

REFLECTIONS UPON CHAP. VI.—It is strange that sinners should so cavil at, contemn, and rage against, the Redeemer; and labour to lay hindrances in the way of their own mercy. And amazing is his grace and patience in sending forth other ministers, when those formerly sent have been so basely contemned and persecuted. Men indeed are often astonished and affected by the word of God, who are never savingly changed by it. And, while they reverence the preacher and hear him gladly, they yet continue in their sins. But ministers must execute their commission, whether men will hear or forbear. And he who sends them on their errand will furnish them for it, own them in it, and make it the duty and inclination of hearers to honour and support them for their works’ sake. On him therefore they ought to depend for maintenance and protection, neither entangling themselves with the affairs of this life, nor fearing the faces of men. Terrible is their case who hear, but reject, the gospel. And most deplorable the situation of those who are under the direction of ignorant and unfaithful ministers. Men’s lusts will drive them to the most fearful lengths when once they are fully entangled. And none are more base than abandoned women. Yea, carnal pretences to fidelity and honour often plunge men into the most bloody crimes, and at last into the depths of hell. But if men seek Jesus, even with natural seriousness, how great his tender compassion to them, and his concern that neither soul nor body should suffer hurt in his service. He is ready to heal every disease, and to supply every want. And he can feed them in a wilderness, or walk on floods for their help. If then he manifest his power and his glory in our deliverance, let us never turn again to folly, nor give way to hardness and unbelief. 4